Elf names evoke magic, nature, and old world charm. When creating an elf character for a game, book, or other fantasy project, the name is one of the most important parts. Their name needs to capture the mystique and elegance of elven culture while still being melodic, unique, and meaningful.
This guide will explore the key aspects of elf names to consider and provide tips for coming up with your own.
What Makes a Good Elf Name?
A good elf name should sound:
- Ethereal – Elf names should feel light, airy, and melodic. They evoke images of misty forests, soft glows, and fluid movements.
- Old world – Elf names often stem from old Celtic, Gaelic, Norse, Greek, and other mythologies. A sense of history and ancestral power imbues their names.
- Natural – Elves have an intimate connection with nature. Their names should reflect aspects of the natural world – trees, plants, animals, seasons, stars, etc.
- Magical – The mystical nature of elves comes through in names related to magic, spells, enchantments, and the supernatural.
- Meaningful – Elf names often have a poetic meaning behind them that provides depth and insight into the character.
Here are some examples of elf names that encapsulate these traits:
Female: Amaryllis, Brighid, Elowen, Luthien, Sylvanas Male: Oberon, Rowan, Cedric, Aeron, Faelor
Types of Elf Names:
There are some naming conventions that differ across elf cultures:
High Elves:
- Often regal, noble sounding names
- Inspired by ancient Greek myths and legends
- Names may reflect magic specialties
Example Names: Elrond, Galadriel, Arwen, Phoenixia
Wood Elves:
- Names reflecting forests, trees, flowers, animals
- Often use soft consonants and vowel sounds
- Sometimes have an ancestral name and a “use name”
Example Names: Amaryllis, Duskwind, Faolon, Mirandel
Drow/Dark Elves:
- Often harsh, guttural sounds or spider references
- Sometimes noble sounding or ironic
- Can indicate dark traits
Example Names: Malice, Zaknafein, Nemeia, Lilith
Lets take a look at some of the Elf Names that you can use:
Fantasy and Role-Playing Games:
Other topics you may be interested in:
Dnd Elf Names:
Dungeons & Dragons (DnD) has always been a fascinating world where elves roam, each with their unique heritage and story. These bold characters embark on epic quests, weaving through magical forests and ancient ruins. Their names carry the echoes of their ancestors, rich in history and power.
- Aelar
- Beiro
- Caelum
- Dain
- Erevan
- Faelar
- Glyn
- Heian
- Ithil
- Jorah
Fantasy Elf Names:
In the realm of fantasy, elf names resonate with the beauty of nature and the ancient magic that flows through their veins. They are mystical beings, guardians of the old world, and their names are as enchanting as the spells they weave.
- Kaelis
- Liora
- Mirelen
- Nuala
- Ophelie
- Phaendar
- Quirell
- Rian
- Sylvar
- Tavon
Lotr Elf Names:
The Lord of the Rings (LOTR) introduces us to a rich tapestry of elf cultures, each with its own language and traditions. These elves are legendary, their names a testament to their grandeur and ancient lineage.
- Legolas
- Arwen
- Galadriel
- Thranduil
- Elrond
- Celebrimbor
- Erestor
- Haldir
- Idrial
- Lorien
Skyrim Dark Elf Names:
In Skyrim, Dark Elves, or Dunmer, stand out with their ash-gray skin and piercing red eyes. They hail from Morrowind, bearing names that reflect their fiery spirits and the volcanic landscape of their homeland.
- Varyn
- Drenis
- Belyn
- Mavos
- Nelos
- Sarthis
- Tythis
- Ulen
- Veloth
- Zayn
Skyrim Wood Elf Names:
Skyrim’s Wood Elves, or Bosmer, are nimble and skilled archers, deeply connected to the forests of Tamriel. Their names are as wild as the woods they call home, echoing the untamed spirit of nature.
- Fainal
- Gwilin
- Horith
- Iniel
- Jorrel
- Kethil
- Lassar
- Morven
- Nenya
- Oraneth
Skyrim High Elf Names:
The High Elves, or Altmer, of Skyrim are known for their regal presence and profound mastery of magic. Their names are sophisticated, reflecting their high stature and deep-rooted heritage.
- Aranwe
- Borion
- Calimo
- Dariel
- Elenwen
- Firyar
- Gondor
- Haeli
- Icaron
- Jorundr
Elder Scrolls Dark Elf Names:
The Elder Scrolls universe is enriched with Dark Elves whose names are as mysterious as their lore. These elves navigate life with resilience and pride, their names a mirror to their strong will and the challenges they’ve overcome.
- Krosis
- Llervu
- Morvayn
- Naryu
- Ondolemar
- Pelagius
- Quaranir
- Rilis
- Serana
- Telvanni
Elder Scrolls High Elf Names:
In the Elder Scrolls, High Elves carry names that resonate with magic and power. They are the epitome of elegance and prowess in spellcraft, their names as majestic as the spires of their homeland.
- Aicantar
- Curwe
- Endarwe
- Fasendil
- Galmis
- Henedil
- Iachesis
- Jeleen
- Kareth
- Lorcalin
Dragon Age Elf Names:
Dragon Age introduces us to elves with a turbulent past, each name carrying the weight of their lost heritage and fierce determination to reclaim their place in the world.
- Fenris
- Merrill
- Solas
- Thane
- Velanna
- Zevran
- Ariane
- Dalish
- Elgar’nan
- Falon’Din
Dnd Half Elf Names:
Half-elves in DnD bridge the worlds of humanity and elfkind, their names a blend of both cultures, symbolizing the duality of their heritage and the unique path they walk in the world.
- Alaric
- Brielle
- Corrin
- Darian
- Elora
- Farrel
- Gideon
- Helena
- Ianthe
- Jase
Dnd Wood Elf Names:
DnD’s Wood Elves are as wild and free as the forests they protect, their names a tribute to the ancient trees and the whispering winds, reflecting their deep connection to nature.
- Kaelthas
- Lariel
- Myrrh
- Naiya
- Ollivander
- Paelias
- Quelar
- Rhothomir
- Silvyr
- Tauriel
Dnd High Elf Names:
High Elves in DnD carry names that ring with elegance and grace, a reflection of their noble origins and their esteemed place within elven society.
- Aerin
- Belenor
- Celoril
- Dracarys
- Eladriel
- Fëanor
- Galathil
- Hithlum
- Isilme
- Jorundel
Eso Dark Elf Names:
In The Elder Scrolls Online, Dark Elves, or Dunmer, continue to fascinate with their enigmatic names, each a piece of the puzzle that is their rich, complex culture and fiery spirit.
- Kena
- Llevndryn
- Morvani
- Neloth
- Othrelas
- Pelinal
- Ravel
- Sarethi
- Telvayn
- Veleth
Dnd 5e Elf Names:
DnD 5th edition brings to life elves with names that sing of ancient magic and untold stories, each name a key to the character’s past and the adventures that await them.
- Aerendyl
- Brindar
- Cyndal
- Dyrrn
- Eilistraee
- Faenor
- Gilthoniel
- Himo
- Ithildin
- Jandar
Skyrim Elf Names:
Skyrim is home to elves of all kinds, their names as varied and fascinating as the landscapes they inhabit, from the snowy peaks to the deepest forests.
- Kharjo
- Lorcalin
- Mithryn
- Nenastar
- Ondoleth
- Pantea
- Quaran
- Rindar
- Sinderion
- Telthar
Wow Blood Elf Names:
World of Warcraft’s Blood Elves, or Sin’dorei, bear names that reflect their proud heritage and the tragic loss of their homeland, Quel’Thalas. These names are as beautiful as they are poignant.
- Anasterian
- Belo’vir
- Calestrasz
- Dath’Remar
- Elandra
- Falathim
- Galthran
- Halduron
- Ilthilior
- Jaina
Tolkien Elf Names:
J.R.R. Tolkien’s elves are legendary, their names woven into the fabric of high fantasy. Each name is a work of art, evoking the depth and beauty of Middle-earth.
- Finrod
- Gil-galad
- Luthien
- Mithrandir
- Nimrodel
- Oropher
- Thalion
- Ungoliant
- Varda
- Yavanna
Elf Types:
Dark Elf Names:
Dark Elves, or Dunmer, are known for their resilience and mysterious nature. They hail from lands shrouded in shadow, their names as enigmatic as their origins.
- Zephyros
- Vex’ahlia
- Thirrin
- Sylas
- Ryth
- Quinlan
- Phylar
- Orym
- Nyx
- Morwen
High Elf Names:
High Elves stand tall and proud, their names echoing the grandeur of their ancient lineages. They are masters of magic, their names as elegant as the spells they cast.
- Aethelind
- Beriothien
- Ceridwen
- Dior
- Elrindir
- Findecano
- Gil-galad
- Herendil
- Isilien
- Jorundil
Wood Elf Names:
Wood Elves are deeply connected to nature, their names a reflection of the forests they call home. They move with grace among the trees, guardians of the wild.
- Kael
- Luthien
- Mielikki
- Nellas
- Orophin
- Pallando
- Quelana
- Rian
- Silvanos
- Tauriel
Blood Elf Names:
Blood Elves carry the legacy of their fallen kingdom, Quel’Thalas, in their names. They are fierce and resilient, their names as radiant as the sunwell they worship.
- Voren’thal
- Thalorien
- Sylven
- Rommath
- Liadrin
- Kael’thas
- Halduron
- Gallywix
- Falstad
- Eversong
Night Elf Names:
Night Elves are mystical beings of the night, their names as enigmatic as the moonlit forests they inhabit. They are ancient guardians of Azeroth, wise and inscrutable.
- Malfurion
- Tyrande
- Illidan
- Shandris
- Kaldorei
- Jarod
- Eranikus
- Cenarius
- Azshara
- Anaris
Sea Elf Names:
Sea Elves are elusive creatures, their names as fluid and changing as the oceans they explore. They are the whispers of the sea, mysterious and captivating.
- Maris
- Nereus
- Oceana
- Pelagia
- Qysea
- Riala
- Sirena
- Thalass
- Ulmo
- Vasha
Moon Elf Names:
Moon Elves are touched by the magic of the night sky, their names as luminous as the moon they revere. They are dreamers and seers, their eyes reflecting the stars.
- Elara
- Selene
- Phoebe
- Artemis
- Hecate
- Lunara
- Mene
- Nephara
- Orion
- Tethys
Sun Elf Names:
Sun Elves are radiant beings, their names shining with the glory of the dawn. They are the bearers of light, their presence as warm as the sun’s embrace.
- Auriel
- Solara
- Helios
- Ra
- Apollo
- Eos
- Surya
- Vivasvan
- Yatagarasu
- Zia
Snow Elf Names:
Snow Elves, or Falmer, are a legend, their names echoing the chill of the frostbound lands they once roamed. They are as mysterious as the snowflakes, each name unique and fleeting.
- Frio
- Gwyndor
- Hrimfaxi
- Iclyn
- Jokul
- Kari
- Lumi
- Neve
- Orel
- Pyry
Astral Elf Names:
Astral Elves traverse the cosmos, their names as vast and endless as the universe itself. They are the explorers of the celestial, their names a map of the stars.
- Celestia
- Orion
- Nova
- Lunastra
- Galaxia
- Eclipsa
- Andromeda
- Cosmos
- Stellaris
- Vega
Void Elf Names:
Void Elves are enshrouded in mystery, their names as enigmatic as the void they harness. They walk the thin line between darkness and light, their names a testament to their power.
- Abyss
- Erebus
- Voidrix
- Nocturne
- Umbra
- Xyris
- Zephyr
- Quasar
- Nihil
- Maelstrom
Contextual and Thematic Names:
Christmas Elf Names:
Christmas elves bring joy and cheer, their names as festive as the season they represent. They work tirelessly to spread holiday spirit, their names a reflection of their merry mission.
- Tinsel
- Jingle
- Holly
- Noel
- Merriment
- Snowball
- Ginger
- Candy
- Blitzen
- Frost
Santa Elf Names:
Santa’s elves are the heart of the North Pole, their names as warm and inviting as a cup of cocoa. They craft toys and spread joy, their names synonymous with Christmas magic.
- Sparkle
- Peppermint
- Twinkle
- Elfie
- Jolly
- Kringle
- Nick
- Yule
- Winter
- Garland
Keebler Elf Names:
Keebler elves are renowned for their delicious creations, their names as sweet as the treats they bake. They are the masters of the oven, their names a recipe for happiness.
- Crispy
- Fudge
- Pecan
- Chip
- Brownie
- Dough
- Sugar
- Butter
- Sprinkle
- Cocoa
House Elf Names:
House elves serve with dedication, their names reflecting their loyalty and the homes they care for. They are the unseen helpers, their names a whisper of their silent support.
- Dobby
- Winky
- Kreacher
- Hokey
- Tippy
- Algie
- Blinky
- Clinky
- Duster
- Fluffy
Harry Potter House Elf Names:
In the Harry Potter universe, house elves are key to the magic of the wizarding world, their names as endearing as their personalities. They serve with loyalty, their names a badge of their honor.
- Dobby
- Kreacher
- Winky
- Hokey
- Blinky
- Algie
- Clinky
- Duster
- Fluffy
- Tippy
Gender and Age Specific Names:
Female Elf Names:
Female elves are graceful and powerful, their names as beautiful as the landscapes they inhabit. They are the keepers of ancient wisdom, their names a song of their strength.
- Aelwyn
- Briala
- Celene
- Delphine
- Eirlys
- Faelwen
- Gwendolyn
- Hesper
- Isolde
- Jenessa
Male Elf Names:
Male elves are noble and brave, their names carrying the weight of their heritage. They are the defenders of their realms, their names a testament to their valor.
- Kaelen
- Lachlan
- Mithras
- Nathon
- Orien
- Perrin
- Quorin
- Rostam
- Sylvan
- Taranis
Girl Elf Names:
Girl elves are the light of the elven worlds, their names as sweet and playful as they are. They bring joy and laughter, their names a melody of their youthful spirit.
- Una
- Vespera
- Willow
- Xanthe
- Ysabel
- Zephyra
- Aria
- Bella
- Celia
- Daisy
Boy Elf Names:
Boy elves are adventurous and curious, their names reflecting their eagerness to explore the world. They are the future heroes, their names a promise of the legends they will become.
- Ethan
- Felix
- Gavin
- Henry
- Ian
- Jasper
- Kyle
- Liam
- Milo
- Noah
Female Wood Elf Names:
Female Wood Elves are as mysterious as the forests, their names a whisper among the leaves. They are enchanting, their names as natural and beautiful as the woods they protect.
- Nyssa
- Ophelia
- Phoebe
- Quilla
- Rowan
- Sariel
- Thalia
- Ula
- Vera
- Wynne
Female Dark Elf Names:
Female Dark Elves are fierce and enigmatic, their names as compelling as the shadows they embrace. They are the night warriors, their names a chant of their power.
- Xylia
- Yara
- Zara
- Acantha
- Belatrix
- Cyra
- Drusilla
- Eris
- Faline
- Giselle
Female High Elf Names:
Female High Elves are elegant and refined, their names as pristine as the high towers they reside in. They are the scholars and mages, their names a spell of their wisdom.
- Hestia
- Illyria
- Jocasta
- Kallista
- Lysandra
- Myranda
- Naiara
- Orielle
- Penelope
- Quintessa
Female Half Elf Names:
Female Half Elves straddle two worlds, their names a blend of human and elf cultures. They are unique, their names a testament to their diverse heritage.
- Rae
- Senna
- Tessa
- Una
- Valora
- Willow
- Xena
- Yelena
- Zinnia
- Alera
Male Wood Elf Names:
Male Wood Elves are guardians of the natural world, their names as sturdy and resilient as the trees. They are the silent watchers, their names a murmur of the forest.
- Beren
- Cadeyrn
- Darnel
- Eamon
- Fingal
- Goron
- Heron
- Idril
- Jareth
- Kian
Male Dark Elf Names:
Male Dark Elves are mysterious and brooding, their names as intriguing as the night. They are the shadows in the darkness, their names a cloak of their identity.
- Lorcán
- Mordred
- Nym
- Othello
- Pyro
- Quin
- Raze
- Sable
- Tenebris
- Umbriel
Elf Names For Girls:
Elf names for girls are charming and delicate, their names as light as a feather. They are the whispers of the wind, their names a gentle touch of their grace.
- Valeria
- Wisteria
- Xanthe
- Yvette
- Zelie
- Althea
- Betha
- Clarice
- Daphne
- Elysia
Cute Girl Elf Names:
Cute girl elf names are adorable and lively, their names a giggle of joy. They are the sparkles in the eyes, their names a hug of their sweetness.
- Fable
- Glimmer
- Honey
- Ivy
- Joy
- Kiki
- Lulu
- Mimi
- Nola
- Opal
Descriptive and Emotional Tones:
Good Elf Names:
Good elf names are noble and uplifting, their names a beacon of hope. They are the light in the darkness, their names a symbol of their virtue.
- Paladin
- Questor
- Radiant
- Saviour
- Trinity
- Unity
- Valor
- Wisdom
- Xenon
- Zenith
Funny Elf Names:
Funny elf names are hilarious and entertaining, their names a burst of laughter. They are the jesters of the elf world, their names a joke shared among friends.
- Chuckles
- Doodles
- Giggles
- Jester
- Kooky
- Loopy
- Munchkin
- Nibbles
- Oops
- Pickles
Cute Elf Names:
Cute elf names are adorable and charming, their names a cuddle of warmth. They are the sweetness of the morning dew, their names a smile of joy.
- Bubbles
- Cuddles
- Dainty
- Elfkin
- Fluffy
- Goober
- Huggles
- Jingle
- Kisses
- Lovey
Best Elf Names:
Best elf names are legendary and timeless, their names a legacy of greatness. They are the epitome of elven excellence, their names a crown of their achievements.
- Maximus
- Noble
- Orion
- Phoenix
- Quillon
- Regal
- Stellar
- Titan
- Valor
- Wyvern
Cool Elf Names:
Cool elf names are sleek and modern, their names a breeze of freshness. They are the trendsetters of the elf world, their names a wave of cool.
- Axel
- Blaze
- Cipher
- Dash
- Echo
- Flash
- Grit
- Hawk
- Ion
- Jolt
Naughty Elf Names:
Naughty elf names are mischievous and playful, their names a trick up the sleeve. They are the rebels of the elf world, their names a wink of their cheekiness.
- Prank
- Quirk
- Rascal
- Slick
- Tinker
- Vex
- Wily
- Xeno
- Yolo
- Zany
Famous Elf Names:
Famous elf names are iconic and memorable, their names a mark of their legendary status. They are the stars of the elf world, their names a banner of their fame.
- Aragorn
- Celeborn
- Drizzt
- Elminster
- Fingolfin
- Galadriel
- Haldir
- Ilúvatar
- Legolas
- Melian
Pretty Elf Names:
Pretty elf names are beautiful and elegant, their names a brush of beauty. They are the artwork of the elf world, their names a portrait of their grace.
- Amara
- Briar
- Calla
- Delilah
- Esmeralda
- Fiona
- Giselle
- Helena
- Isla
- Jasmine
Beautiful Elf Names:
Beautiful elf names are stunning and magnificent, their names a gaze of awe. They are the wonders of the elf world, their names a testament to their beauty.
- Kalia
- Liora
- Mirabelle
- Nerissa
- Oriana
- Persephone
- Quintessa
- Rosalind
- Seraphina
- Tiana
Magical Elf Names:
Magical elf names are enchanting and mystical, their names a spell of magic. They are the sorcerers of the elf world, their names a chant of their powers.
- Arcanus
- Balthazar
- Crystal
- Dazzle
- Enigma
- Fantasia
- Genie
- Hex
- Illusion
- Jinx
Cool Dark Elf Names:
Cool dark elf names are edgy and intense, their names a shadow of intrigue. They are the nightwalkers of the elf world, their names a whisper of their mystery.
- Kaine
- Lestat
- Morpheus
- Nyx
- Obsidian
- Phantom
- Quillon
- Raven
- Shade
- Thorne
Good Female Elf Names:
Good female elf names are gentle and inspiring, their names a light of hope. They are the heroines of the elf world, their names a beacon of their goodness.
- Unity
- Vesta
- Willow
- Xena
- Yasmine
- Zara
- Athena
- Bella
- Celeste
- Diana
Badass Dark Elf Names:
Badass dark elf names are fierce and formidable, their names a force of nature. They are the warriors of the elf world, their names a battle cry of their strength.
- Acheron
- Blade
- Cynric
- Draven
- Elexorien
- Fury
- Grendel
- Havoc
- Inferno
- Jarak
Evil Elf Names:
Evil elf names are sinister and chilling, their names a shiver down the spine. They are the darkness of the elf world, their names a whisper of their malevolence.
- Karnage
- Lurk
- Malefic
- Noctis
- Omen
- Plague
- Quasar
- Ravage
- Scream
- Torment
Tips to Consider:
Use name generators – Elf name generators provide instant suggestions based on common conventions. They provide a jumping off point for inspiration.
Blend common prefixes/suffixes – Parts like aero, fa, al, van, mir, loth, ria, ais are commonly used in elf names. Mix and match them create new combinations.
Describe traits or abilities – Name elves based on their skills and traits e.g. Farshot, Swiftarrow, Truesight.
Use nature terms – Forest, flower, tree, herb, gemstone names make melodic, natural elf names.
Check meanings – Research any name meanings to ensure they impart the desired nuances.
Say names out loud – Elf names should roll off the tongue. Be sure candidate names sound lyrical when spoken.
Main Takeaways:
- Evokes ethereal, mystical qualities
- Uses old world mythologies as inspiration
- Connects to nature and the supernatural
- Melodic sounding and lyrical
- May reflect key traits, abilities, or culture
Following these guidelines will ensure your elf character has a name that captures the essence of elven identity. Whether you generate ideas, research meanings, or combine elements – let your creativity guide you to the perfect elf name.
Summary Table:
| Aspect | Characteristics | Examples |
|---|---|---|
| Overall Sound | Ethereal, melodic, light | Amaryllis, Aeron |
| Influences | Old world myths, magic, nature | Rowan, Phoenixia |
| Culture Types | High Elf, Wood Elf, Drow | Elrond, Faolon, Zaknafein |
| Creation Tips | Generators, name parts, meanings | Swifarrow, Duskwind |
Final Thoughts:
An elf’s name is integral to conveying their mystical and natural identity. By tapping into old world myths, nature elements, and melodic sounds – you can create the perfect name to capture the essence of your elf character.
Use this guide’s tips and examples to develop an elf name that feels connected to elven culture and magic. Whether they are a High Elf mage or Wood Elf ranger, let their name reflect their rich inner nature and backstory.
Sources:
FAQ’s:
Elf Names are a collection of mystical and enchanting names used to represent elves in folklore, literature, and fantasy settings. They often carry meanings that reflect the nature, beauty, and power of these ethereal beings.
Choosing an Elf Name involves considering the character’s traits, the linguistic style of the elf culture in your story, and the name’s meaning. Look for names that resonate with the character’s personality or abilities, and feel free to get creative!
Absolutely! Elf Names can be used as nicknames, gaming avatars, or even as inspiration for naming children. They offer a unique and magical alternative to more common names.
Yes, there are different types based on various elf cultures depicted in literature and media. For example, High Elf Names might sound more regal and ancient, while Wood Elf Names could reflect elements of nature.
Inspiration for Elf Names can be found in fantasy literature, movies, and online name generators. Books by authors like J.R.R. Tolkien, who created extensive elf lore, are a great starting point.
Sean W, a versatile blogger, has a keen interest in naming across various niches, including businesses, products, and brands. His expertise extends beyond just business names, offering valuable insights into the art of naming in different sectors. At Free Business Name, Sean combines his extensive blogging experience with a passion for exploring how names shape identities and perceptions. He guides entrepreneurs and creatives in choosing names that truly resonate with their vision and audience. With Sean’s help, readers can navigate the complex world of naming and create powerful, memorable identities for their ventures.
